Regan
My name is Regan. I am 33 years old and live in North Carolina. I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis in September 2008 by Dr. Nortin Hadler at UNC-Chapel Hill. Unfortunately, at that time I wasn’t willing to do anything about my AS at that point. I was willing to live with the ups-and-downs of the disease so I could act like nothing was wrong. Dr. Hadler was not supportive of my decision, but agreed that when I was ready to deal with my AS, I’d be back. Fast forward to December 14, 2013 – I reached the point where I couldn’t deal with it anymore. At first, I thought I was just dealing with a normal flare. I went to my primary care doctor in hopes of getting some temporary relief (Thank God for prednisone!). Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get in with Dr. Hadler (next appointment was March!), but I go ta referral to Dr. Eliot Kopp with Triangle Ortho. I saw him on Thursday, January 9. He spent almost 2 hours with me that afternoon. We set out on a treatment plan that we hope will slow the progression of this terrible disease. Here’s hoping we’re on the right track!
North Carolina, United States of America
The Faces Of Ankylosing Spondylitis 
Dear Regan,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie